2009 Lincoln MKZ: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2009 Lincoln MKZ is that electronic stability control became standard on every car. Otherwise, it was a light-update year that kept the same basic formula as 2008.
About the 2009 Lincoln MKZ
1st generation MKZ (2007-2012), third model year under the MKZ name and the last year before the 2010 refresh.
Lincoln positioned the MKZ as a comfort-focused entry luxury sedan with a roomy cabin, strong standard equipment, and an easygoing driving character. The 2009 brochure leans on heated and cooled leather seats, voice-controlled SYNC, genuine wood trim, and V6 power, while reviewers noted that even the single trim arrived well-equipped. Its core appeal was quiet cruising and luxury features without asking shoppers to climb a long trim ladder.
Lincoln presented the 2009 MKZ as a complete luxury sedan rather than a stripped-down entry model. Its 263-horsepower V6 was paired with a six-speed automatic, while heated and cooled leather front seats, genuine wood trim, voice-controlled phone and media integration, and rear parking sensors gave the single well-equipped trim its upscale character.
What changed, by category
2009 Lincoln MKZ specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 263 hp |
| Torque | 249 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Cooled Seats | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Remote Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Lincoln MKZ?
The biggest change is standard electronic stability control on every 2009 MKZ. The system can help the driver regain control when the car starts to skid.
Is the 2009 Lincoln MKZ a redesigned model?
No, the 2009 MKZ is not a redesign. It is the third year of the first MKZ generation and the final model year before the 2010 refresh.
How is the 2009 Lincoln MKZ different from the 2008 model?
The main difference is that electronic stability control became standard for 2009. The Base trim was also added, but the core V6 powertrain and well-equipped luxury-sedan formula carried over.
Did the 2009 Lincoln MKZ get a new engine?
No, the 2009 MKZ kept its 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. The year's meaningful model-wide update was standard electronic stability control, not a powertrain change.
What notable features does the 2009 Lincoln MKZ have?
The 2009 MKZ has heated and cooled 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, driver-seat memory, genuine wood trim, voice-controlled phone and media integration, and rear parking sensors. These features helped make its single trim feel well equipped.